Ronald James Dowling

In the early hours of Sunday (March 10, 2019), Ronald James Dowling slipped away.

He was preceded in death by his parents, James L. & Lois J. (Rennie) Dowling; and sister, Sandra Dowling.

Of those left behind are his loving wife, Janice (Hastings) Dowling; as well as son, Jim Dowling; stepdaughter, Sharon Coler; sister, Sheryl (Dowling) Stonebrook; sister, Shelley Dowling; three nieces, Cindy, Katie, and Kim; two nephews, Travis (Lori) and Tyler (Kristen); three great-nephews, Liam, Aiden, and Whyatt; a great-niece, Bella; and his best chum, Denny McConahay.

He and Jan married on September 18, 1993. She has said that he was the best husband in the world and all she ever needed. Her devotion to him was just as evident.

An animated story teller, Ron knew how to spin a tale. Family get-togethers were marked with stories of childhood memories and work experiences. He loved sports and played baseball and basketball in his youth. Skeet shooting was also a popular pastime and there remains to this day a one-armed baby doll whose limb loss can be attributed to his remarkable aim. Golf was a loved game as an adult and he could tell you what course you were talking about just by the description. He remained involved in the games he loved by coaching Little League and basketball at Madison. He was also an avid football fan.

Many stories he told were from his work as a paramedic with Birds Ambulance Service. He then moved on and began work at the Cambridge State Hospital in 1968. He retired in 1996 as the Fire Chief, Chief of Police, and Safety Officer. He used these skills to lovingly harass the children in the family and all of them know not to smile when saying "Peanut Butter" three times. (Note: no one has been able to accomplish this.)

He attended Irish Ridge U.M.C. faithfully and was greatly loved by its members. In his more quiet moments, he could be seen driving around town, or parked by the lake, enjoying his radio programs.

There is so much to say. It would fill volumes to recite all the fond memories he created, all the things remind us of him. Instead we will say dear Ron, we will remember your quiet strength. Your generosity and compassion. Your humor. And when family and friends gather, we will tell your stories again, so they will not be forgotten. We keep you in our hearts, always. Til we meet again.

Visitation will be held Saturday (March 16, 2019) from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Irish Ridge United Methodist Church (13969 Clary Road, Kimbolton OH), where funeral services will follow at 12 p.m. with Pastor Phil Murphy officiating.

Burial will be at Irish Ridge Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Hospice of Central Ohio, 2269 Cherry Valley Road, Newark OH 43055 .

Saturday, March 16, 2019 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Irish Ridge United Methodist Church 13969 Clary Road Kimbolton, OH 43749

Saturday, March 16, 2019 12:00 PM

Irish Ridge United Methodist Church 13969 Clary Road Kimbolton, OH 43749